Dordogne Valley France Map

Located in the southwestern part of France, Dordogne Valley is a region that is known for its picturesque countryside, medieval villages, and rich history. It is also famous for its stunning castles, prehistoric caves, and beautiful rivers. If you are planning to visit this region soon, then this travel guide is for you.

Top Attractions

Dordogne Valley has a lot of attractions that you should not miss. Among the top attractions that you should visit are:

Chateau de Beynac

This is a beautiful castle that was built in the 12th century. It is located on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne River. The castle has a rich history and has been featured in many movies.

Lascaux Caves

The Lascaux Caves are a complex of caves that are famous for their prehistoric paintings. They are located near the village of Montignac and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sarlat-la-Caneda

This is a beautiful medieval town that is known for its well-preserved architecture. It is also famous for its food scene and has many restaurants that serve traditional French cuisine.

Hidden Gems

Dordogne Valley has many hidden gems that are not well-known to tourists. Among the hidden gems that you should visit are:

Maison Forte de Reignac

This is a unique castle that was built into a cliff. It is located near the village of Tursac and offers a great view of the surrounding countryside.

Gouffre de Padirac

This is a natural wonder that is located near the village of Padirac. It is a large cave system that has an underground river.

Chateau des Milandes

This is a beautiful castle that was once owned by Josephine Baker. It is located near the village of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle and has a rich history.

Food Scene

Dordogne Valley is known for its traditional French cuisine. Among the dishes that you should try are:

Magret de Canard

This is a dish made from duck breast that is cooked rare. It is served with a sweet sauce.

Truffles

Dordogne Valley is known for its truffles, which are a type of mushroom. They are often used to flavor dishes.

Walnuts

Dordogne Valley is also known for its walnuts. They are often used in desserts such as tarts and cakes.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Dordogne Valley can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Among the budget-friendly tips that you should consider are:

Stay in a Gite

A gite is a type of holiday accommodation that is similar to a vacation rental. They are often cheaper than hotels.

Eat Lunch Instead of Dinner

Lunch menus are often cheaper than dinner menus in restaurants. Consider eating your main meal at lunchtime.

Visit Free Attractions

There are many free attractions in Dordogne Valley such as parks and museums. Consider visiting these attractions instead of paid attractions.

Outdoor Adventures

Dordogne Valley has many outdoor adventures that you can enjoy. Among the outdoor adventures that you should try are:

Canoeing

Dordogne River is a popular spot for canoeing. You can rent a canoe and paddle through the beautiful countryside.

Hiking

Dordogne Valley has many beautiful hiking trails. Consider hiking through the countryside and enjoying the stunning views.

Cycling

Dordogne Valley is a great place for cycling. There are many cycling routes that you can take and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Family-Friendly Activities

Dordogne Valley has many family-friendly activities that you can enjoy. Among the family-friendly activities that you should try are:

Aquarium du Perigord Noir

This is an aquarium that is located near the village of Le Bugue. It has many different types of fish and is a great place to take children.

Le Bournat

This is a theme park that is located near the village of Le Bugue. It is a great place to learn about traditional French life.

Monkey Forest

This is a park that is located near the village of Rocamadour. It has many different types of monkeys and is a great place to take children.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Dordogne Valley has many off-the-beaten-path experiences that you can enjoy. Among the off-the-beaten-path experiences that you should try are:

La Roque-Gageac

This is a beautiful village that is located on the banks of the Dordogne River. It is not well-known to tourists but is a great place to visit.

Font-de-Gaume

This is a cave that is located near the village of Les Eyzies. It has prehistoric paintings and is not well-known to tourists.

Rocamadour

This is a village that is located on a cliff. It has a rich history and is not well-known to tourists.

Natural Wonders

Dordogne Valley has many natural wonders that you can enjoy. Among the natural wonders that you should visit are:

Les Jardins de Marqueyssac

This is a garden that is located near the village of Vezac. It has many beautiful plants and offers a great view of the countryside.

The Dordogne River

The Dordogne River is a beautiful river that flows through Dordogne Valley. Consider taking a boat tour and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

The Grotte du Grand Roc

This is a cave that is located near the village of Les Eyzies. It has many beautiful formations and is a great place to visit.

Vibrant Nightlife

Dordogne Valley may not be known for its nightlife, but there are still many places where you can have a great time. Among the places that you should visit are:

La Guinguette

This is a bar that is located near the village of Vitrac. It has a great atmosphere and often has live music.

Cabaret Toulouse-Lautrec

This is a cabaret that is located near the village of Perigueux. It has a great atmosphere and often has live performances.

Le Saint Martial

This is a bar that is located near the cathedral in Perigueux. It has a great atmosphere and often has live music.

Local Markets

Dordogne Valley has many local markets that you can visit. Among the markets that you should visit are:

Sarlat Market

This is a market that is held every Saturday in Sarlat-la-Caneda. It has many different types of food and is a great place to buy souvenirs.

Perigueux Market

This is a market that is held every Wednesday and Saturday in Perigueux. It has many different types of food and is a great place to buy souvenirs.

Bergerac Market

This is a market that is held every Wednesday and Saturday in Bergerac. It has many different types of food and is a great place to buy souvenirs.

Beaches and Mountains

Dordogne Valley may not have beaches or mountains, but there are still many places where you can enjoy the outdoors. Among the places that you should visit are:

Parc Naturel Regional des Causses du Quercy

This is a regional park that is located near the village of Rocamadour. It has many different types of landscapes and is a great place to hike.

Plage des Bardoulets

This is a beach that is located on the banks of the Dordogne River. It is a great place to swim and relax.

Lac du Causse

This is a lake that is located near the village of Brive-la-Gaillarde. It is a great place to swim and enjoy the outdoors.

Cultural Immersion

Dordogne Valley has a rich cultural heritage that you can explore. Among the cultural immersion experiences that you should try are:

Chateau de Castelnaud

This is a castle that is located near the village of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle. It has a